Gastroesophageal reflux, which is sometimes simply called gastric reflux, is a disorder caused by the temporary rise of stomach contents into the esophagus. Gastroesophageal reflux, from a simple disorder can turn into a real disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which is characterized by lesions of the esophageal wall, caused by the reflux itself.
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Il gastroesophageal reflux, which is sometimes called simply gastric reflux or gastritis, is a disorder caused by the temporary rise of the contents of the stomach in 'esophagus.
Il gastric reflux, from a simple disorder it can turn into a real disease, the disease from gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), which is characterized by lesions of the esophagus wall, caused by the reflux itself.
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Causes of gastroesophageal reflux
Il gastroesophageal reflux can occur both in the adults that in children. Reflux in children is often due to problems related to cardias, the functioning of which usually normalizes over time. In adults the reflux it can be caused by a release of the lower esophageal sphincter.
There may be a weakening of the closing pressure, particularly with respect to increased abdominal pressure. The lower esophageal sphincter it's a special one valve muscle that opens when the passage of food is necessary. When the valve closes, it prevents the blood from rising to the esophagus gastric juices present in the stomach.
The odds that the gastroesophageal reflux occur rise with the increase of how long the food stays in the stomach. The problem can also concern the esophagus itself and the loss of the ability to transport food smoothly and quickly to the stomach, without giving rise to an unwanted stay in the connecting tract.
Other cause of the gastroesophageal reflux is l 'acidity of saliva. Saliva, in fact, is slightly basic. A factor that allows you to buffer acidity and prevent the esophagus from coming into contact with too acidic substances. Saliva helps to remove acid reflux from the esophagus, but if its pH tends to acidity, this function can be impaired.
Due to the conformation assumed by the abdomen, the obese people and women in pregnancy are more exposed to gastroesophageal reflux.
Finally, the smoke it is a risk factor that should not be underestimated, because it can cause the alteration of the pH of saliva and contribute to exacerbate acidity in the stomach and esophagus.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Symptoms
When the valve that separates the esophagus from the stomach does not work properly, acidic juices in the stomach can rise and cause excess acid reflux, which causes bothersome symptoms. Anxiety and stress can exacerbate i symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux.
Burning e acid reflux are the most typical symptoms of this disorder. The burning sensation particularly affects the upper abdomen. It can occur immediately after meals or at night when lying down. Gastroesophageal reflux can also be associated with bad digestion or assuming incorrect positions while sitting, which can compress the area of the esophagus and stomach.
Gastroesophageal disorder can extend its symptoms to some organs in the vicinity of the esophagus, such as the pharynx and larynx. Recurrent pharyngitis e chronic laryngitis, asthma or nose breathing problems may be associated with gastroesophageal reflux. It is about external symptoms which are not always related to the problem of reflux in time.
Natural remedies for gastroesophageal reflux
Gastroesophageal reflux, like numerous other health problems, can be alleviated thanks to natural remedies and herbal preparations. In addition, reducing anxiety and stress, with targeted relaxation activities, can help limit the problem.
Among the natural remedies more common for reflux we find mallow, licorice and more.
1) Mallow
La mallow it has soothing and emollient properties. You can use it for the preparation of herbal teas and macerates, useful for relieving the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux. In herbalist's shop you can buy dried mallow and products based on mallow extracts that are best suited to take care of the problem.
2) Aloe Vera
Il aloe vera gel - not the juice - it can represent a natural remedy suitable to be taken in case of gastroesophageal reflux. Aloe has the power to regenerate mucous membranes, but you have to be very careful about contraindications, to avoid taking unsuitable products. Always refer to your doctor and herbalist.
3) Almonds
The doctor Millie Lytle, a naturopath from New York, suggests eating some raw almonds to balance the pH. Almonds are an alkalizing food and can help reduce thestomach acid and the discomfort caused by reflux. In addition, they are a good source of calcium.
4) Water and lemon
Rebekah Fedrowitz, an expert in holistic nutrition, suggests drinking a cup of warm water e lemon juice freshly squeezed to start the day in the best possible way. Drinking lemon water on an empty stomach 15 to 20 minutes before breakfast helps your body balance its acidity level. It facilitates digestion and has no particular contraindications.
Read also: Lemon water: 10 health benefits
5) Licorice
The naturopath Luca Avoledo indicates the licorice root as a source of precious extracts with anti-inflammatory properties, useful for their action on the mucous membranes of the stomach and esophagus. In case of reflux, the expert recommends both the decoction and the tablets. Licorice, however, raises blood pressure, so it should be used with caution by those suffering from hypertension.
You know other natural remedies useful for gastroesophageal reflux?
Recommended foods, the opinion of our experts:
Marta Albè
Read also:
Gastritis: 10 natural remedies
